Introduction:. The aim of this study was to identify the rate of complications of total ankle replacement in a single Centre to help with informed patient consent. Methods:. Between 2008 and 2012, 202 total ankle replacements (TARs) were performed by 4 surgeons at our Institute. Data was collected on all patients; demographics, arthritic disease, pre-operative deformity, prosthesis and all early and late complications. Results:. 4 surgeons (A, B, C, D) performed 63, 55, 48 and 36 TARs (178 De Puy Mobility and 24 Corin Zenith). 130 patients had primary osteoarthrosis, 35 had rheumatoid and 36 had post traumatic osteoarthrosis. There were no differences in patient demographics for each surgeon. There were 3 deep infections (A, B, C, D: 1,0,2,0). There were 18 medial malleolar fractures (8 intra-operative [4,1,1,2], 3 early (< 3 months) [1,1,0,1] and 7 late (> 3 months) [2,2,2,1]). There were 2 lateral malleolar fractures, both intra-operative (0,0,1,1). There were 15 patients who developed superficial wound infections, which resolved fully with oral antibiotics (4,3,4,4). A further 7 patients had a delay to wound healing (wound not fully healed at 3 months) (4,0,2,1); 2 of these developed deep infection and failed. 22 patients had persistent medial gutter pain (9,4,5,4); all had undergone Mobility TAR. 4 patients developed recurrent edge loading and have had to be revised (4 converted to TTC fusion) (2,0,2,0). We report complications in 32% of patients. Overall 9 TARs failed and underwent revision to fusion (2,2,5,0). Conclusion:. We report an overall complication rate of 32% following TARs, however most are minor and don't affect clinical outcome. We had a 1.5% deep infection rate. Complication rates were comparable between 4 surgeons. There was a difference in medial gutter pain rate between implants (13% v 0% Mobility to Zenith). This data provides detailed complication rates for informed consent

Tendoscopy in the treatment of peroneal tendon disorders is becoming an increasingly safe, reliable, and reproducible technique. Peroneal tendoscopy can be used as both an isolated procedure and as an adjacent procedure with other surgical techniques. The aim of our study was to review all peroneal tendoscopy that was undertaken at the AOC, by the senior authors (IGW, SH), and to determine the safety and efficacy of this surgical technique. Methods. From 2000 to 2017 a manual and electronic database search was undertaken of all procedures by the senior authors. Peroneal tendoscopy cases were identified and then prospectively analysed. Results. 51 patients (23 male, 28 female) were identified from 2004–2017 using a manual and electronic database search. The mean age at time of surgery was 41.5 years (range 16–83) with a mean follow-up time post operatively of 11.8 months (range 9–64 months). The main indications for surgery were lateral and/or postero-lateral ankle pain and lateral ankle swelling. The majority of cases showed unstable peroneal tendon tears that were debrided safely using tendoscopy. Of the 51 patients, 23 required an adjacent foot and ankle operation at the same time, 5 open and 17 arthroscopic (12 ankle, 5 subtalar). Open procedures included 2 first ray osteotomies, 2 open debridements of accessory tissue, one PL to PB transfer. One patient also had an endoscopic FHL transfer. Complication rates to date have been low: 2 superficial wound infections (4%) and one repeat tendoscopy for ongoing pain. A small proportion of patients with ongoing pain were treated with USS guided steroid injections with good results. Conclusion. Our series of peroneal tendoscopy has a low complication rate with high patient satisfaction at discharge. Results of tendoscopic treatment are similar to open techniques, however its advantages make tendoscopic procedures an excellent method to treat peroneal tendon disorders

Aims. The optimal management of posterior malleolar ankle fractures, a prevalent type of ankle trauma, is essential for improved prognosis. However, there remains a debate over the most effective surgical approach, particularly between screw and plate fixation methods. This study aims to investigate the differences in outcomes associated with these fixation techniques. Methods. We conducted a comprehensive review of clinical trials comparing anteroposterior (A-P) screws, posteroanterior (P-A) screws, and plate fixation. Two investigators validated the data sourced from multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science). Following PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a network meta-analysis (NMA) using visual analogue scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included range of motion limitations, radiological outcomes, and complication rates. Results. The NMA encompassed 13 studies, consisting of four randomized trials and eight retrospective ones. According to the surface under the cumulative ranking curve-based ranking, the A-P screw was ranked highest for improvements in AOFAS and exhibited lowest in infection and peroneal nerve injury incidence. The P-A screws, on the other hand, excelled in terms of VAS score improvements. Conversely, posterior buttress plate fixation showed the least incidence of osteoarthritis grade progression, postoperative articular step-off ≥ 2 mm, nonunions, and loss of ankle dorsiflexion ≥ 5°, though it underperformed in most other clinical outcomes. Conclusion. The NMA suggests that open plating is more likely to provide better radiological outcomes, while screw fixation may have a greater potential for superior functional and pain results. Nevertheless, clinicians should still consider the fragment size and fracture pattern, weighing the advantages of rigid biomechanical fixation against the possibility of soft-tissue damage, to optimize treatment results. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):227–235

Introduction. Cheilectomy is a recommended procedure for the earlier stages of osteoarthritis of the 1. st. metatarsophalangeal joint. Although good improvement in symptoms have been reported in many studies, the long term performance of this procedure is not well understood. It is thought that a significant number of patients go onto have arthrodesis or joint replacement. We report on a large cohort of patients who received this procedure and report on the complications and mid-term outcome. Methods. This is a retrospective study looking at all patients who underwent cheilectomy for hallux rigidus between November 2007 and August 2018. Departmental database was used to access patient details and outcome measures recorded include: postoperative wound infection, patient reported improvement in pain and the incidence of further surgical interventions like revision cheilectomy and conversion to arthrodesis and arthroplasty. X-rays were studied using PACS to stage the osteoarthritis (Hattrup and Johnson classification). Results. A total of 240 feet in 220 patients (20 bilateral surgeries) were included in the study, there were 164 Females (75%) and 56 Males (25%), the median age was 55 years (range 22–90 years). Radiological assessment showed 89 Stage 1 arthritis(42%), 105 Stage 2 (50%), 17 Stage 3 (8%) and 9 patients were excluded due to unavailable X-rays. 5 patients (2%) had superficial wound infection. There were 16 further surgeries (7%) performed in this cohort, 12 arthrodesis (5%), 3 revision cheilectomy and 1conversion to arthroplasty. 157 patients were found to be pain-free at the latest post-operative visit (77%), 48 reported minimal pain (23%), 15 patients were excluded due to unavailable data. Conclusion. Cheilectomy appears to produce good improvement in pain with a low complication rate. The rate of conversion to arthrodesis/arthroplasty is lower than in many reported studies

Background. Optimal management of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains controversial. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) versus non-operative treatment in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture up to 2-years. Methods. All displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures between August 2014 and January 2019 that presented to a level 1 trauma centre were considered for inclusion. The decision to treat was made by a multidisciplinary meeting. Operative treatment protocol involved sinus tarsi approach or percutaneous reduction & internal fixation. Non-operative protocol involved symptomatic management with no attempt at closed reduction. All fractures were classified, and the MOXFQ/EQ-5D-5L scores were used to assess foot and ankle and general health-related quality of life outcomes respectively. Results. 101 patients were recruited at a level 1 major trauma centre, between August 2014 and January 2019. Our propensity score matched 44 patients in the surgical cohort to 44 patients in the non-surgical cohort. At 24 months, there was no significant difference in the MOXFQ Index score (p<0.05) however the patients in the surgical cohort had a significantly higher EQ-5D-5L Index score (p<0.05). There was also a higher return to work (91% vs 72%, p<0.05) and physical activity rate (46 vs. 35%, p<0.05) in the surgical cohort despite a higher proportion of more complex fractures in the surgical cohort. The wound complication rate following surgery was 16%. 14% of patients in the non-operative cohort subsequently underwent arthrodesis compared to none of the patients in the surgical cohort. Conclusion. In this study, we found operative treatments were associated with low rates of surgical complication at 2-years and long term pain improvement, facilitating earlier and better functional outcomes for complex injury patterns compared to nonoperative treatment

Background. There are many different procedures described for the correction of hallux valgus deformity. Minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly popular, with clinical and radiological outcomes comparable to traditional open osteotomy approaches. There is increasing interest in hallux valgus deformity correction using third-generation minimally invasive chevron akin osteotomy (MICA) technique. Objective. To assess the radiographic correction and 2 year clinical outcomes of third-generation MICA using validated outcome measures. Methods. This is a prospective single-surgeon case series of 420 consecutive feet undergoing MICA surgery between July 2014 and November 2018. Primary clinical outcome measures included the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), EQ-5D, and the Visual Analogue Pain Scale. Secondary outcome measures included radiographic parameters, and complication rates. Results. Pre-operative and 2 year post-operative patient reported outcomes were collected for 334 feet (79.5%). At minimum 2 year follow-up, the MOXFQ scores (mean ± standard deviation (SD)) had improved for each domain: pain; pre-operative 43.9±21.0 reduced to 9.1±15.6 post-operatively (p<0.001), walking and standing; pre-operative 38.2±23.6 reduced to 6.5±14.5 post-operatively (p<0.001) and social interaction; pre-operative 47.6±22.1, reduced to 6.5±13.5 post-operatively (p<0.001). At 2 year follow-up, the VAS Pain score (mean ± SD) improved from a pre-operative of 31.3±22.4 to 8.3±16.2 post-operatively (p<0.001). 1–2 intermetatarsal angle (mean ± SD) reduced from 15.4°±3.5° to 5.8°±3.1° (p<0.001) and hallux valgus angle reduced from 33.1°±10.2° to 9.0°±5.0° post-operatively (p<0.001). Conclusion. Third-generation MICA showed significant improvement in clinical outcomes at 2 year follow-up and can be successfully used for correction of a wide range of hallux valgus deformities

Aims. Management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains a debated topic in orthopaedics, with operative fixation often held in reserve due to concerns regarding perioperative morbidity and potential complications. The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of patients who developed surgical complications to inform the future stratification of patients best suited to operative treatment for intra-articular calcaneal fractures and those in whom surgery was highly likely to produce an equivocal functional outcome with potential post-operative complications. Methods. All patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures utilizing the Sinus Tarsi approach between March 2014 and July 2018 were identified using theatre records. Patient imaging was used to assess pre- and post-operative fracture geometry with Computed Tomography (CT) used for pre-operative planning. Each patient's clinical presentation was established through retrospective analysis of medical records. Patients provided verbal consent to participation and patient reported outcome measures were recorded using the Maryland Foot Score. Results. Fifty-eight intra-articular calcaneal fractures (fifty-three patients including five bilateral, mean age = 46.91 years) were included. Forty-nine patients were injured as a result of a fall from a height (92.4%). Mean time from presentation to surgery was 3.23 days (range 0–21). Mean Maryland Foot score was found to be 77.6 (+/− 16.22) in forty-five patients. Five patients (9.4%) had wound complications; two superficial (3.7%) and three deep (5.6%). Conclusion. Intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus should be considered for surgical intervention in order to improve long-term functional outcomes. The Sinus Tarsi approach provides the potential to decrease the operative complication rate whilst maintaining adequate fixation, however, the decision to surgically manage these fractures should be carefully balanced against the risk of post-operative complications. This increased risk of complication associated with smoking may tip the balance against benefit from surgical management

Introduction. Unstable ankle fractures are routinely managed operatively. Due to soft-tissue and implant related complications, there has been recent literature reporting on the non-operative management of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures following fibular stabilisation, but with limited evidence supporting routine application. This trial assessed the superiority of internal fixation of well-reduced (displacement ≤2mm) medial malleolus fractures compared with non-fixation following fibular stabilisation. Methods and participants. Superiority, pragmatic, parallel, prospective randomised clinical trial conducted over a four year period. A total of 154 adult patients with a bi- or trimalleolar fractures were recruited from a single centre. Open injuries and vertical medial malleolar fractures were excluded. Following fibular stabilisation, patients were randomised intra-operatively on a 1:1 basis to fixation or non-fixation after satisfactory fluoroscopic fracture reduction was confirmed. The primary outcome was the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) at one-year post-randomisation. Complications and radiographic outcomes were documented over the follow-up period. Results. Among 154 participants (mean age, 56.5 years; 119 women [77%]), 144 [94%] completed the trial. At one-year the median OMAS was 80 (IQR, 60–90) in the fixation group compared with 72.5 (IQR, 55–90) in the non-fixation group (p=0.17). Complication rates were comparable. Significantly more patients in the non-fixation group developed a radiographic non-union (20% vs 0%; p<0.001), with the majority (n=8/13) clinically asymptomatic and one patient required surgical re-intervention for this. Fracture type and reduction quality appeared to influence fracture union and patient outcome. Conclusions. In this randomised clinical trial comparing internal fixation of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures with non-fixation, following fibular stabilisation, fixation was not superior according to the primary outcome. However, 1 in 5 patients following non-fixation developed a radiographic non-union and whilst the re-intervention rate to manage this was low, the future implications require surveillance. These results may support selective non-fixation of anatomically reduced medial malleolus fractures

Background. In fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures, AO advocate using a lag screw and one-third tubular neutralisation plate for simple patterns. Where a lag screw cannot be placed, bridging fixation is required. A local pilot service evaluation previously identified variance in use of locking plates in all patterns with significant cost implications. The FAIR study aimed to evaluate current practice and implant use across the United Kingdom (UK) and review outcomes and complication rates between different fibula fixation methods. Method. The study was supported by CORNET, the North East trainee research collaborative, and BOTA. Data was collected using REDCap from 22 centres in the UK retrospectively for a one-year period between 1. st. January 2019 and 31. st. December 2019 on injury mechanism, fracture characteristics, comorbidities, fixation and complications. Follow-up data was collected to at least two-years from the time surgery. Results. 1448 ankle fractures which involved fixation of the fibula were recorded; one-third tubular plate was used in 866 (59.8%) cases, a locking plate in 463 (32.0%) cases and other methods in 119 (8.2%) cases. There was significant difference between centres (p<0.001) in implant type used. Other factors associated with implant type were age, diabetes, osteoporosis, open fractures, fracture pattern and the presence of comminution. Incidence of lateral wound breakdown was higher in locking plates than one-third tubular plates (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in infection, non-union, fixation failure or removal of metalware. Conclusion. There is significant variation in practice in the UK in implant use for fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures. Potentially unnecessary use of locking plates, where a one-third tubular shows equivalent outcomes, incurs additional cost and may increase the risk of lateral wound breakdown. We would encourage surgeons with high locking plate usage to evaluate their own unit's practice against this data

Introduction. Hindfoot intramedullary nail fixation (HFN) or fibula pro-tibial screw fixation (PTS) are surgical options for ankle fractures in patients with multiple co-morbidities; we compared their outcomes. Methods. A retrospective review of 135 patients who underwent HFN fixation (87 patients) or PTS fixation (48 patients) for ankle fractures (AO/OTA A/B/C) from 5 major trauma centres. Patient demographic data, co-morbidities, Charlson Co-morbidity Index Score (CCIS), weight-bearing, and post-operative complications were recorded. Radiographs were assessed for non-union and anatomical reduction. Results. HFN estimated 10-year survival was 27±31% and was 48±37% for PTS (p<0.001). Average time to full weightbearing (FWB) in the HFN group was 1.7±3.3 weeks compared to 7.8±3.8 weeks in the PTS group (p<0.001). Despite this, HFN fixation carried a greater VTE risk (p=0.02). HFN accompanied by joint preparation had greater risk of infection (p=0.01), metalwork failure (p=0.02) and wound breakdown (p=0.01). The overall complication rate in diabetic patients was 56%, but 76% in HFN patients. In the HFN group 17 (20%) patients died at 1 year. Patients with open fractures(p=0.01), dementia (p<0.05), and a higher CCIS (p=0.04) were more likely to die after HFN surgery. Age and co-morbidity matched data showed a higher rate of complications and mortality in those above 75 years fixed with a HFN, irrespective of CCIS. In those between 60–75 years, there was a greater risk of superficial infection and mortality after HFN, irrespective of CCIS. These complications were not seen after PTS. Conclusion. HFN carries a greater risk of superficial infections, VTE and mortality compared to PTS, independent of age and CCIS. Diabetes leads to a greater comparative risk of deep infections, wound breakdown and non-union in HFN. Alternative methods of fixation (e.g. PTS) should be considered before HFN. HFN may be suitable in selective indications where other methods are not appropriate

Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate whether on-demand removal (ODR) is noninferior to routine removal (RR) of syndesmotic screws regarding functional outcome. Methods. Adult patients (aged above 17 years) with traumatic syndesmotic injury, surgically treated within 14 days of trauma using one or two syndesmotic screws, were eligible (n = 490) for inclusion in this randomized controlled noninferiority trial. A total of 197 patients were randomized for either ODR (retaining the syndesmotic screw unless there were complaints warranting removal) or RR (screw removed at eight to 12 weeks after syndesmotic fixation), of whom 152 completed the study. The primary outcome was functional outcome at 12 months after screw placement, measured by the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). Results. There were 152 patients included in final analysis (RR = 73; ODR = 79). Of these, 59.2% were male (n = 90), and the mean age was 46.9 years (SD 14.6). Median OMAS at 12 months after syndesmotic fixation was 85 (interquartile range (IQR) 60 to 95) for RR and 80 (IQR 65 to 100) for ODR. The noninferiority test indicated that the observed effect size was significantly within the equivalent bounds of -10 and 10 scale points (p < 0.001) for both the intention-to-treat and per-protocol, meaning that ODR was not inferior to RR. There were significantly more complications in the RR group (12/73) than in the ODR group (1/79) (p = 0.007). Conclusion. ODR of the syndesmotic screw is not inferior to routine removal when it comes to functional outcome. Combined with the high complication rate of screw removal, this offers a strong argument to adopt on demand removal as standard practice of care after syndesmotic screw fixation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(11):1709–1716

Aims. This is a multicentre, non-inventor, prospective observational study of 503 INFINITY fixed bearing total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs). We report our early experience, complications, and radiological and functional outcomes. Methods. Patients were recruited from 11 specialist centres between June 2016 and November 2019. Demographic, radiological, and functional outcome data (Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale, Manchester Oxford Questionnaire, and EuroQol five-dimension five-level score) were collected preoperatively, at six months, one year, and two years. The Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (COFAS) grading system was used to stratify deformity. Early and late complications and reoperations were recorded as adverse events. Radiographs were assessed for lucencies, cysts, and/or subsidence. Results. In all, 500 patients reached six-month follow-up, 420 reached one-year follow-up, and 188 reached two-year follow-up. The mean age was 67.8 years (23.9 to 88.5). A total of 38 patients (7.5%) presented with inflammatory arthritis. A total of 101 (20.0%) of implantations used patient-specific instrumentation; 167 patients (33.1%) underwent an additional procedure at the time of surgery. A total of seven patients died of unrelated causes, two withdrew, and one was lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up was 16.2 months (6 to 36). There was a significant improvement from baseline across all functional outcome scores at six months, one, and two years. There was no significant difference in outcomes with the use of patient-specific instrumentation, type of arthritis, or COFAS type. Five (1.0%) implants were revised. The overall complication rate was 8.8%. The non-revision reoperation rate was 1.4%. The 30-day readmission rate was 1.2% and the one-year mortality 0.74%. Conclusion. The early experience and complications reported in this study support the current use of the INFINITY TAA as a safe and effective implant in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1270–1276

Aims. Postoperative rehabilitation regimens following ankle arthrodesis vary considerably. A systematic review was conducted to determine the evidence for weightbearing recommendations following ankle arthrodesis, and to compare outcomes between different regimens. Patients and Methods. MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched for studies reporting outcomes following ankle arthrodesis, in which standardized postoperative rehabilitation regimens were employed. Eligible studies were grouped according to duration of postoperative nonweightbearing: zero to one weeks (group A), two to three weeks (group B), four to five weeks (group C), or six weeks or more (group D). Outcome data were pooled and compared between groups. Outcomes analyzed included union rates, time to union, clinical scores, and complication rates. Results. A total of 60 studies (2426 ankles) were included. Mean union rates for groups A to D were 93.2%, 95.5%, 93.0%, and 93.0%, respectively. Mean time to union was 10.4 weeks, 14.5 weeks, 12.4 weeks, and 14.4 weeks for groups A to D, respectively. Mean complication rates were 22.3%, 23.0%, 27.1%, and 28.7% for groups A to D, respectively. Reporting of outcome scores was insufficient to conduct meaningful analysis. Conclusion. Outcomes following ankle arthrodesis appear to be similar regardless of the duration of postoperative nonweightbearing, although the existing literature is insufficient to make definitive conclusions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1256–1262

Aims. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) surgery is complex and attracts a wide variety of complications. The literature lacks consistency in reporting adverse events and complications. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of each of these complications from a literature review, and to compare them with rates from our Unit, to aid clinicians with the process of informed consent. Patients and Methods. A total of 278 consecutive total ankle arthroplasties (251 patients), performed by four surgeons over a six-year period in Wrightington Hospital (Wigan, United Kingdom) were prospectively reviewed. There were 143 men and 108 women with a mean age of 64 years (41 to 86). The data were recorded on each follow-up visit. Any complications either during initial hospital stay or subsequently reported on follow-ups were recorded, investigated, monitored, and treated as warranted. Literature search included the studies reporting the outcomes and complications of TAA implants. Results. There were wound-healing problems in nine ankles (3.2%), superficial infection in 20 ankles (7.2%), and deep infection in six ankles (2.2%). Intraoperative fractures occurred in medial malleoli in 27 ankles (9.7%) and in lateral malleoli in four ankles (1.4%). Aseptic loosening and osteolysis were seen 16 ankles (5.8%). Fracture of the polyethylene component occurred in one ankle (0.4%) and edge-loading in seven ankles (2.5%). We observed medial gutter pain in 31 ankles (11.1%). The incidence of thromboembolism occurred in two ankles (0.7%). The results were found to be comparable to the previously reported complications of total ankle arthroplasty in the literature. Conclusion. Total ankle arthroplasty continues to evolve and improve the ankle function. Despite high overall complication rates with TAA surgery, most complications appear to be minor and do not affect final clinical outcome. Our results and literature review will help in the consent process and provide detailed complication rates for an informed consent. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1352–8

Lisfranc injuries were previously described as fracture-dislocations of the tarsometatarsal joints. With advancements in modern imaging, subtle Lisfranc injuries are now more frequently recognized, revealing that their true incidence is much higher than previously thought. Injury patterns can vary widely in severity and anatomy. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to achieve good outcomes. The original classification systems were anatomy-based, and limited as tools for guiding treatment. The current review, using the best available evidence, instead introduces a stability-based classification system, with weightbearing radiographs and CT serving as key diagnostic tools. Stable injuries generally have good outcomes with nonoperative management, most reliably treated with immobilization and non-weightbearing for six weeks. Displaced or comminuted injuries require surgical intervention, with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) being the most common approach, with a consensus towards bridge plating. While ORIF generally achieves satisfactory results, its effectiveness can vary, particularly in high-energy injuries. Primary arthrodesis remains niche for the treatment of acute injuries, but may offer benefits such as lower rates of post-traumatic arthritis and hardware removal. Novel fixation techniques, including suture button fixation, aim to provide flexible stabilization, which theoretically could improve midfoot biomechanics and reduce complications. Early findings suggest promising functional outcomes, but further studies are required to validate this method compared with established techniques. Future research should focus on refining stability-based classification systems, validation of weightbearing CT, improving rehabilitation protocols, and optimizing surgical techniques for various injury patterns to ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1431–1442.

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The aim of this study was to compare the longer-term outcomes of operatively and nonoperatively managed patients treated with a removable brace (fixed-angle removable orthosis) or a plaster cast immobilization for an acute ankle fracture.

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When a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) fails, it can be converted to a fusion or a revision arthroplasty. Despite the increasing numbers of TAAs being undertaken, there is little information in the literature about the management of patients undergoing fusion following a failed TAA. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the survival of fusions following a failed TAA using a large dataset from the National Joint Registry (NJR).

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This study evaluated the effect of treating clinician speciality on management of zone 2 fifth metatarsal fractures.

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This study aimed to compare the outcomes of two different postoperative management approaches following surgical fixation of ankle fractures: traditional cast immobilization versus the Early Motion and Directed Exercise (EMADE) programme.

Aims. The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcome and implant survivorship of mobile-bearing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) performed by a single surgeon. Patients and Methods. We reviewed 205 consecutive patients (210 ankles) who had undergone mobile-bearing TAA (205 patients) for osteoarthritis of the ankle between January 2005 and December 2015. Their mean follow-up was 6.4 years (2.0 to 13.4). Functional outcome was assessed using the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) score, visual analogue scale, and range of movement. Implant survivorship and complications were also evaluated. Results. There were significant improvements in all functional outcome categories between the preoperative and final follow-up assessments (p < 0.001). Patients showed marked improvement in clinical outcomes in terms of pain, function, and quality of life. The overall implant survivorship was 91.7% at a mean follow-up of 6.4 years. In all, 33 major complications were identified with a 15.7% rate, resulting in 12 prosthesis failures (5.7%). Periprosthetic osteolysis (19 cases; 9.0%) was the most frequent complication. Conclusion. Mobile-bearing TAA resulted in improved functional outcomes, a low major complication rate, and excellent implant survivorship at a mean follow-up of 6.4 years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:695–701